In a major step toward strengthening technical and vocational education in Nigeria, Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, hosted a one-day Students’ Sensitization Programme on the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF). The event was organized by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and brought together student leaders from NBTE-accredited institutions across the Southeast region.
Participating institutions included:
Federal Polytechnic, Oko; Federal Polytechnic, Ohodo (Enugu State); Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Uwana (Ebonyi State); John Bosco Institute of Technology; Federal College of Land Resources and Technology, Owerri; Imo State Polytechnic, Omuma; Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Ihiala; Ezeala College of Nursing, Imo State; Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Abia State; Anambra State Polytechnic, Mgbakwu; Merit College of Nursing Sciences, Orlu; and Federal Polytechnic, Nekede.
Declaring the event open, Dr. Kenneth Ezekwe, Deputy Rector (Administration) of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, who represented the Rector, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, urged students to value competence over mere certification. He commended the NBTE for its forward-thinking initiatives that empower students with marketable skills and promote career readiness.
“The Polytechnic is fully committed to skill acquisition,” Dr. Ezekwe said. “Under the leadership of Dr.7 Awuzie, the institution has equipped its skills acquisition centre with modern facilities, while also reviving key practical-learning hubs such as the bread factory and printing press.”
Speaking at the event, Engr. Ogonna Nwokoye, Director of the Polytechnic's Skill Development Centre, highlighted the importance of the NSQF in ensuring that graduates are not only academically sound but also practically skilled. “This framework strengthens national development and makes our students globally competitive,” he noted.
In her presentation, Engr. Dr. Ngozi Okelekwe, NBTE South East Zonal Director, described the NSQF as a vital3 solution to Nigeria’s unemployment challenges. She explained that the framework is designed to recognize and certify skills and competencies—whether formally or informally acquired—making individuals more employable and industry-relevant.
“NSQF benefits both candidates and employers,” Dr. Okelekwe stated. “It enhances job performance and also provides a structured approach to recruitment and staff development.”
She emphasized the need for more NSQF centres across tertiary institutions in the region, noting that currently, only a few such centres exist at institutions like Federal Polytechnic, Oko; Abia State Polytechnic; and Federal Polytechnic, Nekede.
The Zonal Director also explained that certified quality assurance assessors—whether internal or external to institutions—play a critical role in ensuring skill acquisition meets national standards.
Representing the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), Comrade Aliyu Omotayo Yusuf, Vice President (Special Duties), encouraged his fellow student leaders to become ambassadors of the NSQF by organizing awareness programmes in their respective institutions.
Welcoming the participants, Comrade Odumegwu Chinecherem Emmanuel, SUG President of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, described the programme as timely and transformational. “This framework empowers students to build viable careers based on measurable, certified skills,” he said, thanking NBTE for its consistent efforts in aligning technical education with global standards.
Comrade Chibuzor Asomugha, Dean of3 Student Affairs, emphasized that skill acquisition must go beyond local craftsmanship and become globally competitive. He praised NBTE’s persistence in institutionalizing the NSQF in the Nigerian polytechnic system.
Also speaking, Dr. Nkiruka Akabuike, Deputy Rector (Academic), urged students not only to attend polytechnic but to let the polytechnic experience shape them. “Our education model is built to equip you with skills that lead to self-reliance. Sadly, many students miss out by taking shortcuts. I encourage you to embrace the full process,” she said.
In closing remarks, Mr. Opeyemi Ridwan, NBTE Desk Officer (Student Affairs), called for a national mindset shift towards skill development. “Countries around the world are exporting their skills to drive economic growth. Nigeria must catch up,” he urged.
The sensitization programme marked a significant milestone in deepening student awareness of the NSQF and reaffirmed NBTE’s commitment to preparing Nigerian youths for a skill-driven future.